In a landmark step for India’s space and telecom sectors, Hyderabad-based Ananth Technologies is poised to become the first Indian private firm to launch satellite communication (satcom) services using an indigenously-built satellite. This development follows approval from IN-SPACe, the Indian space regulator.
Broadband-From-Space by 2028
The company will roll out broadband-from-space services starting in 2028, using a 4-tonne geostationary satellite that will deliver up to 100 Gbps data capacity. This satellite will be positioned at geostationary orbit (GEO), around 35,786 km above Earth, and is capable of covering the entire Indian subcontinent with a single satellite. Ananth has committed ₹3,000 crore initially, with more funding planned based on demand.
GEO vs LEO: A Strategic Choice
Unlike international players such as Starlink (SpaceX), OneWeb, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which use Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for low-latency connectivity, Ananth is taking the GEO route. While LEO offers lower latency, GEO satellites cover wider areas, making them ideal for large regions like India. This strategy could help reduce infrastructure costs while reaching underserved areas.
Rising Competition in India’s Satellite Internet Space
Ananth’s entry adds to an already intensifying race. Starlink has received a draft letter of intent from IN-SPACe and is nearing full approval. It joins the ranks of authorised players such as Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite. Starlink already holds a GMPCS licence, making it eligible to offer satellite broadband in India.
Vodafone Idea’s Bold Move in Space
Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea (Vi) recently partnered with AST SpaceMobile, a US-based firm building the world’s first cellular broadband network from space. AST successfully completed the first voice and video call from space using a standard smartphone, showcasing a revolutionary leap in space-based mobile services.
India’s Private Space Race Heats Up
India’s satcom landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. Ananth Technologies’ upcoming launch and partnerships by giants like Vi signal that space-based connectivity is no longer futuristic—it is imminent. This new era promises broader access, increased competition, and a stronger push for domestic innovation.
